Attorney General Lynn Fitch, along with the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi today recognized several individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to serving victims of crimes in Mississippi at the 2023 Outstanding Service to Crime Victims Award Ceremony.
“This Crime Victims Rights’ Week, we want to recognize the heroes who selflessly serve people of crime all across the state,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “These individuals come alongside victims on their darkest days and offer a beacon of hope and light. I am grateful for their commitment, offering care and compassion as they seek justice for our fellow Mississippians.”
Mississippi Attorney General’s Office Honorees
Detective Myiesha Stewart
On October 11, 2022, Greenville Police Department Detective Myiesha Stewart was shot and killed while responding to a call where others had been injured by gunfire. Stewart grew up in Greenville and went on to attend Delta State University after graduating high school, where she played basketball and majored in criminal justice. She is survived by her son and parents. Her parents, Petula Carter and Michael Stewart, accepted the award on her behalf.
Police Officer Branden Estorffe and Sergeant Steven Robin
Bay St. Louis Police Officer Branden Estorffe and Sergeant Steven Robin were shot and killed while conducting a welfare check on a woman and child sitting in a vehicle parked in a motel parking lot. They had been speaking to the woman for approximately 30 minutes before making a request for Child Protection Services. Moments later, the woman opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Estorffe and Sergeant Robin.
Officer Estorffe, who had served with the Bay St. Louis Police Department for two years, is survived by his mother, father, four sisters, brother, and grandparents. Sergeant Robin, who had served with the Bay St. Louis Police Department for three years and previously with the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department, is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Accepting the award on behalf of Officer Estorffe is his father, Ian Estorffe. Accepting on behalf of Sergeant Robin’s widow, Amy, is Officer Mark Barraclough.
“These officers dedicated and sacrificed their lives in service to others,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “While their bravery and willingness to put others before themselves can never be repaid, it is with eternal gratitude and appreciation that we honor Detective Stewart, Officer Estorffe and Sergeant Robin for their sacrifice.”
Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence Honoree
Vicksburg Municipal Judge Angela Carpenter
“Due to the complexities of domestic violence and navigating the court system, it is important to recognize those who work within systems that go above and beyond to assure that needs are met,” said Wendy Mahoney of Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence. “Judge Angela Carpenter not only understands the needs but addresses those needs both in the courtroom as well as outside of the courtroom. She has implemented processes, procedures and programming to bring greater support, awareness and resources for those impacted by domestic violence.”
Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault Honoree
Shana Johnson, Founder, The Rehabilitation Academy
“We honor Shana Johnson as Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault’s Outstanding Service to Crime Victims Awardee for her endless sincere dedication and tireless commitment to go the extra miles, more than you can ask or think for her community to live free from violence,” said Levette Johnson of Mississippi Coalition Against Sexual Assault.
Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi Honoree
Nebra Porter, Assistant District Attorney for the 1st District
“Nebra has worked with the First District Attorney’s Office since 2012 as an Assistant District Attorney. During that time, she has been an integral part of Child Abuse Multidisciplinary Response Teams in her service area,” said Karla Tye of Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi. “Having a member of the District Attorney’s office on a Multidisciplinary Team is a critically important voice in the handling of child abuse cases. She always demonstrates a passion and commitment to providing excellent care for victims of child abuse.”
